New Zealand’s professional orchestras have, for many years, made a valuable contribution to our cultural life. They are the cornerstone of a wider network of junior orchestras, community orchestras, ensembles and performing groups, tertiary music schools, music teachers and composers.

Our five main orchestras have been supported by successive governments and local authorities as a public good. However, with a static funding environment for the foreseeable future, changes in public demand and a population that is increasingly concentrated in the north of the country, it’s time for a stock-take.

The discussion paper has been informed by input from the five main orchestras, their boards and funders, an international expert and an external reference group. It outlines the challenges facing the sector and presents some ideas for future change to ensure New Zealanders continue to have access to high quality orchestral services.